Description
This Bacon Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor from bacon, it’s an easy-to-make baked pasta dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, this recipe combines the richness of cream cheese with the savory goodness of bacon for a truly unforgettable meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 4 cups milk (whole, skim, or your choice)
- 10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder or dried onion flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cooked and chopped bacon
- 3.5 cups shredded Italian cheese blend (divided)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
Step 2: In a large pot over medium heat, whisk together the milk, cream of chicken soup, and cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese has fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Stir in 2 cups of the shredded Italian blend cheese, along with the garlic powder, onion powder (or flakes), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until the cheese is melted and everything is well blended.
Step 4: Break the spaghetti strands in half and carefully stir them into the hot, bubbling cheese sauce. Cook, stirring frequently, until the pasta is al dente—usually about 8–10 minutes, depending on your desired texture.
Step 5: Transfer the cheesy spaghetti mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1.5 cups of Italian blend cheese evenly on top.
Step 6: Place in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the surface is beautifully golden and bubbling.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy immediately while warm and gooey.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a guaranteed hit because it’s:
- Incredibly Creamy: The combination of cream cheese, milk, and cream of chicken soup creates a luscious, velvety sauce.
- Packed with Flavor: The bacon adds a smoky, savory depth that complements the richness of the cheese.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this dish comes together quickly.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Warm, cheesy, and satisfying, it’s the perfect meal for a cozy night in.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to your preferences; add veggies, different cheeses, or seasonings.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of red pepper flakes for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Consider serving as a main course for a casual dinner party or potluck.
Tips:
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting results. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Cook the spaghetti al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
- If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, assemble it and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use a vegetable-based cream soup. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables for extra flavor.
- To add a bit of heat, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese sauce.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 600-700 per serving
- Protein: 30-35g per serving
- Sodium: 800-1000mg per serving
Conclusion
Bacon Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a delightful and indulgent dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and savory bacon make it a standout recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this spaghetti recipe is a winner. Enjoy the rich flavors and the simplicity of this easy-to-make pasta dish.
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use different types of cheese?
- Yes, you can substitute the Italian cheese blend with other cheeses such as mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and use a vegetarian cream of mushroom soup. You can also add vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance?
- Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- What can I add to make it spicier?
- You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the pasta is al dente.
